Jack has experienced recurrent episodes of major depressive episodes. In the intervals between the episodes, he does not seem to return to "normal." In fact, during those periods, he has been diagnosed as having low-grade depression. Jack's condition is referred to as
A)double depression.
B)bipolar disorder.
C)atypical depression.
D)dysfunctional dysthymia.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Double depression refers to the coexistence of major depressive episodes and dysthymic disorder, which is characterized by a less severe but more chronic depression. In this case, Jack experiences recurrent major depressive episodes but does not fully recover between them and instead has low-grade depression, consistent with dysthymic disorder. Therefore, double depression is the best choice. The other options, bipolar disorder, atypical depression, and dysfunctional dysthymia, do not fully capture Jack's presentation.

Jack Has Experienced Recurrent Episodes of Major Depressive Episodes